Rhode Island Reports 2nd 2026 Powassan Case in Man in His 70s
Updated
Updated · Turn to 10 · Aug 13
Rhode Island Reports 2nd 2026 Powassan Case in Man in His 70s
3 articles · Updated · Turn to 10 · Aug 13
Summary
A Newport County man in his 70s has been diagnosed with Powassan virus disease after developing symptoms in late July, Rhode Island health officials said.
The case is Rhode Island’s second in 2026 and the 10th recorded overall, underscoring the rarity of the tick-borne illness.
Powassan can begin with fever, headache, vomiting and weakness, then progress to meningoencephalitis with seizures, altered mental status and aphasia.
RIDOH said there is no vaccine or treatment, urging residents to avoid tick-heavy areas, wear long sleeves and pants, use DEET-based repellents and check for ticks promptly.